Click image to enlarge Images courtesy: Audi

For 2007, the Audi A8 and A8 W12 are joined by a third model, the new S8, which uses a 5.2-litre V10 also found in the all-new S6.

On A8 and A8L models, the 4.2-litre engine now has FSI direct-injection gasoline technology, which raises horsepower levels over the 2006 version.

The A8 undergoes several trim changes, including new front and rear comfort headrests; there’s an available Bang & Olufsen Advanced Audio System; the standard Bose Surround Sound System gets a power increase; there’s a new driver information centre; the CD changer now has MP3 capability and iPod integration; and there is a new smaller satellite radio antenna. A rearview camera is standard on the W12 and included in the Premium Package on 4.2 models, and a new 20-inch wheel option is available on the W12 and the 4.2 with Sport Package. On the exterior, Ibis White replaces Arctic White, and Phantom Black Pearl effect is added.

The A8 line-up consists of the A8, in regular or A8L long-wheelbase configuration, with a 4.2-litre V8; the W12, in long-wheelbase only, with a W-configuration 12-cylinder engine; and the S8, in short-wheelbase only, with 5.2-litre V10. All use a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive.

Features on the A8 and A8L include 18-inch polished alloy wheels, four-corner air suspension with electronic shock absorption control, driver and front passenger knee protection airbags, side and curtain airbags, voice-controlled DVD-based navigation system, bi-Xenon adaptive light system, dual-zone climate control, Bose 12-speaker sound system with glovebox-mounted six-CD changer, power sunroof, 16-way power adjustable front seats with memory, auto-dimming interior and exterior mirrors, universal garage door opener, high-pressure headlight washers, Bluetooth phone preparation, advanced MMI (Multi Media Interface) system, satellite radio preparation, power tilt-and-telescoping steering column with easy-entry system, Valcona leather interior and heated front seats.

The S8 adds 20-inch alloy wheels, four-corner air suspension with S-specific sport tuning, Alcantara headliner, polished aluminum exterior mirrors, bi-colour leather sport seats, grey birch wood trim and S8-specific badges.

The W12 adds 19-inch alloy wheels, rear centre console with four-passenger seating, separate six-way rear power heated seats, power rear and manual rear window sunshades, four-zone climate control system, rear pass-through with ski sack, power open and close trunk, power-closing doors, rear-seat entertainment system, front seat ventilation and massage, and dual-paned insulated door glass.

The A8 remains Audi’s flagship model, in two lengths that make it suitable for personal use or as a limousine, and with power that is delivered precisely to the asphalt through Audi’s famous Quattro all-wheel drive system. The S8 takes it to a new level of performance, with attractively larger wheels and a sport-tuned suspension that puts this in an all-wheel level few others can approach. It’s a lot of money, but the A8 is a lot of car.